The Latics have turned to Scandinavia in the past, but have enjoyed little joy in their search for new recruits.

Martinez hopes that will situation will change in 2013, as he believes there are hidden gems to be unearthed in that part of the world.

He is reluctant to speculate on the identity of the targets he has in mind, but reports suggest that Copenhagen striker Andreas Cornelius, Nordsjaelland defender Jores Okore and Aalborg forward Nicklas Helenius are all on his wish list.

Martinez told Tipsbladet: "I've tried to sign Danish players several times before but, due to different reasons, I've yet to be successful in doing so.

"I don't want to name names of specific players out of respect for the respective clubs involved.

"I am crazy about the Danish mentality towards attacking football, so I hope that we can be luckier in our hunt in the future."

till I suppose it still gives him at least another year in the job. By the time it comes around , he can always make up another excuse. First it was 3 months , then a year .....Next year ? Whats his excuse with Van Persie ?